Minister O'Regan announces an initiative to support Veteran hiring in the Public Service and issues a corporate challenge

TORONTO, Sept. 28, 2017 /CNW/ - Canada's Veterans and service men and women are known around the world for their skills, abilities and expertise. The Government of Canada is committed to helping Veterans and releasing Canadian Armed Forces personnel find meaningful employment to help ensure a successful transition to post-military life.

During the Veterans Career Summit at the Invictus Games in Toronto, the Honourable Seamus O'Regan, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence issued a challenge to corporate Canada and the Public Service to recognize the valuable skills Veterans have acquired through the Canadian Armed Forces and to help welcome them into the civilian workforce.

Minister O'Regan also announced the launch of the Veterans in the Public Service Unit (VPSU) while addressing attendees of the Career Summit. This new unit within Veterans Affairs was formed to help Veterans navigate the Federal Public Service hiring process. The VPSU also works with managers from across the public service, in promoting the training, experiences and skill-sets of Canadian Veterans for employment within the Public Service.

Quote

"While in service to Canada, Veterans have gained the skills, experience and leadership that make them ideal employees. I encourage and challenge corporate Canada and the Public Service of Canada to recognize the value of the skills that our brave men and women have acquired, and commit to joining us in our efforts to encourage the hiring of Canada's Veterans."
The Honourable Seamus O'Regan, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence

Quick Facts

• The VPSU was formed in 2017 and is the first dedicated service of its kind in Canada to assist Veterans navigating the public service hiring process.
• The VPSU will help Veterans understand and make the most of their entitlements under the Veterans Hiring Act and express their skills, military education and experience in terms that public service hiring managers will understand.
• The VPSU will help Veterans with the technical skills of applying for a job, including: editing their resumes and cover letters; understanding the terminology and application process for applying to Public Service jobs; and help translating military skills and experience to public service hiring managers.
• Veterans in the Public Service Unit responsibilities include: educating Veterans on the public service hiring process; assisting Veterans in applying for jobs in the public service; connecting Veterans and federal employers; and, advocating for Veterans and the skills they bring.
• The VPSU will work with Veterans to provide possible Public Service opportunities that may be a match to their skills, education and desired location.
• The VPSU is made up of Veterans who understand the needs of a releasing Veteran looking for meaningful employment.
• The five person VPSU team is funded from VAC's existing budget.
• Veterans who have any questions or require assistance can contact the VPSU by sending a message through My VAC Account or by calling the Department at 1-866-522-2122.

Associated Link
Careers in the federal public service

SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada